"I’m serving on the PSG Board because I understand how deeply poverty can shape a person’s opportunities, confidence, and sense of belonging. Too often, people who are struggling are expected to navigate systems without enough support, advocacy, or understanding. I believe being in spaces like this matters because representation, compassion, and intentional action matter. I wanted to serve not just as a participant, but as an ally, someone committed to listening, advocating, and helping create environments where people feel respected, supported, and seen beyond their circumstances. To me, real community is built when we recognize that everyone deserves dignity, access, and the chance to thrive, regardless of what they may be facing behind the scenes."
– Alycia C. Banks

"I am serving on the PSG Board because I am passionate about community impact and creating meaningful change. I value organizations that are committed to uplifting and supporting individuals and families, and I admire the work PSG does to address important community needs. I look forward to contributing my perspective, continuing to learn from others, and helping support initiatives that create positive and lasting outcomes for the communities. "
– Sasha Mills

"Poverty is a causal issue. So many other community and global concerns are rooted in poverty--homelessness, hunger, disease, etc. If we can reduce poverty, we can impact many other issues."
– Lynette Fields

"I grew up in poverty. Education was my way out and yet education is not an option for everyone. PSG focuses on reducing poverty in a way that is sustainable while also addressing systemic barriers that promote poverty and enlighten the missing link... Why I was born into poverty. I serve on the PSG Board to enhance our ability as an organization to eradicate the multi-systemic structures that promote poverty in the first place."
– Joshua A. Torres Hassett

"Having the opportunity to experience the COPE event allowed me to ask about the different ways I can be of service and impact on a program that I wished I had experienced years ago. I believe that PSG is on the right path to assist the community and their needs."
– Maria Hernandez

""
– Jeremy Hugley

"I serve on the PSG Board because of my commitment to education, equity, and community impact. As a clinical social worker, I work closely with people affected by systemic barriers with a practical and informed perspective on the challenges surrounding poverty. I am especially interested in contributing to solutions that promote long-term stability and meaningful change to support the most vulnerable affected by poverty and related social issues."
– Virginia Tenias, MSW, CDVA, HTP

"I serve on the PSG (Poverty Solutions Group) Board to advance sustainable, long-term strategies that reduce poverty and empower families to thrive. My work has shown me that poverty is not just an economic issue, it is deeply connected to health, housing, education, and access to opportunity. Serving on the PSG Board allows me to contribute to efforts that prioritize sustainable progress, supporting families not only to meet immediate needs, but to achieve long-term economic security and improved well-being. My goal is to help foster environments where families are not just supported, but truly empowered—with the resources, opportunities, and stability needed to break cycles of poverty and build healthier futures."
– Dr. Cynthia Williams

"Having experienced poverty myself, I understand how it can affect one’s daily life, especially emotionally. No one speaks about emotional poverty. Joining forces with PSG allows me the opportunity to bring my lived experiences and proven solutions to caring leaders, children and families everywhere."
– Shequila Roberts

"I am serving on the PSG Board because I believe strong communities are built when leaders come together to create real solutions for individuals and families facing challenges. This opportunity allows me to combine my HR, workforce development, and community engagement experience to help make a meaningful and lasting impact in Central Florida."
– Pam McGee